Victoria looked at the mark and saw it was already moving. Already counting down.
One hundred sixteen hours.
Less now.
One hundred fifteen hours and fifty-eight minutes.
Fifty-seven.
Fifty-six.
"How do I find Thalia in the middle realms?" Victoria asked.
"Follow your tracking magic," the guardian said. "Blood calls to blood even here. Especially here. Your cousin's signature will lead you to her."
"And you?" Victoria asked. "Are you coming with me?"
"I guided you to the Underworld," the guardian said. "My obligation is fulfilled. You walk the rest alone."
It began to dissolve back into water.
"Wait!" Victoria called. "How do I get back? When I'm ready to leave?"
The guardian's voice came from the water as it disappeared: "The same way you entered. Call for passage. Pay the price. But witch....the exit price is higher than the entrance. Be prepared to pay more than you expect."
Then it was gone.
